Towing Equipment Capacity for 2012 Toyota Highlander AWD

Updated 04/16/2022 | Published 04/15/2022

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Question:

I do not think this has the tow package - there is no hitch installed. There is no TWR on the door jamb sticker either. It has the 3.5 engine and AWD. Can I install a Class 3 hitch and a wiring harness and tow a trailer that weighs 2478lbs with a TW under 500lbs? If possible, what parts would you suggest that I buy from you? Thank you for your time?

asked by: Douglas J

Expert Reply:

According to the owner's manual, a 2012 Toyota Highlander equipped with AWD and the 3.5L engine has a maximum towing capacity of 5000 lbs for a braked trailer or 1000 lbs for an un-braked trailer. The maximum tongue weight of the trailer would be 11% of the towing capacity or 550 lbs.

For a Class III hitch, I'd recommend the Curt # 13534. You'll also need a # 2753 ball mount and a trailer ball. For a 1-7/8 inch ball, use # 19260 or # 63845 for a 2 inch ball.

For wiring, you'll need a # 118449 wiring harness. To actuate the trailer brakes, you'll need a brake controller like the Curt # C24VV as well as a # ETBC7 brake controller install kit. The kit includes an adapter that converts the 4-pole provided by the # 118449 into a 7-way trailer connector, as well as all the necessary hardware, wire and circuit breakers.

I've linked to install videos for the hitch, the trailer wiring harness and the brake controller.